Sports: Mayor Hancock Declares January 11 “United in Orange Friday”

Orange is the new black. Our Denver Broncos (yes, the team we’ve whined about for years and which just barely squeaked in a playoff victory last year) are a major favorite to win their first post-season game, taking place Saturday at home against the Baltimore Ravens. An analyst from the Bleacher Report said mid-week that the Broncos’ 11-game win streak left them favored by nine points. Earlier this season, Denver went into Baltimore and handily beat the Ravens 34-17 in a game many predicted would show the true capabilities of Peyton Manning’s new squad.

But records don’t matter in the post-season. If we lose, we stay home…from a potential trip to New Orleans. A lucky 76,125 fans will fill Sports Authority Field at Mile High to cheer—and freeze—as the Broncos try to take advantage of hosting a second playoff game in Denver. But you can still show your Broncos love if you’re watching the game from the warmth of your home or favorite drinking establishment.

Wear orange: It seems so simple, but it makes a statement. Denver Mayor Michael Hancock proclaimed this Friday, January 11, United in Orange Friday. Hancock wants Broncos fans to don their orange in support of Denver’s first playoff game.

Bring your spirit fingers: Join other Broncos maniacs Friday at the free, open-to-the-public pep rally from 5 to 8 p.m. on the Sports Legends Mall on the south side of the stadium. Broncos alumni and cheerleaders will lead the event, along with Miles the Mascot, Funkiphino, and other special guests. Plus, prizes, tickets, and Broncos memorabilia will be given away to fans.

Walk where the champions walk: Whether season tickets have been in your family for decades or you’ve never even walked the steep stairs to Mile High Stadium’s nosebleeds, this is your chance to get the grand tour: Check out the keg room, walk onto the field, and even sit in a locker as you explore where the competition prepares in the Mile High City. Bonus: Mingle with Broncos cheerleaders and alumni while you hoist the same Vince Lombardi Super Bowl trophies that crowned John Elway king of the city. The tours will be held the weekend before the Super Bowl. For tickets, visit livingsocial.com/events/573942-exclusive-vip-broncos-champions-tour.